Why Daniel Simiu missed the world record at the Berlin Half Marathon

Why Daniel Simiu missed the world record at the Berlin Half Marathon

Abigael Wafula 16:03 - 08.04.2024

Daniel Simiu has explained why he missed Jacob Kiplimo's world record at the just concluded Berlin Half Marathon.

Daniel Simiu Ebenyo went for the Berlin Half Marathon on Sunday intending to break the world record but missed it.

As the race started, the Kenyan was in a world record pace and looked very comfortable but about halfway, he started reducing his speed in the solo run and was able to win the race but did not achieve his target.

He clocked an impressive 59:30 to cross the finish line ahead of Amos Kurt (59:42) and Isaia Lasoi (59:47) who finished second and third respectively. The World 10,000m silver medallist passed 5km in a fast 13:28 and 10km in 27:29 but slowed in the closing stages to miss the 58:42 course record.

Follow the Pulse Sports Kenya X (Twitter) handle for more news.

Speaking about missing the world record that was set by Jacob Kiplimo (57:31), Simiu explained that he encountered a problem with his knee and had to slow down at the latter stages of the race.

“I came here to Berlin because I wanted to break the world record (Jacob Kiplimo’s 57:31)," said Simiu, as per Athletics Weekly.

"But from around 11km, I had a problem with my knee and the weather became very warm. So, I knew I would not be able to break the record, but I will definitely try again next time.”

The World Half Marathon silver medallist has been off to a good start this season where he is unbeaten in all the three races he competed in.

He started with a win at the 67° Campaccio-International Cross Country before extending his winning streak to the Sirikwa Classic Cross Country. He is having a steady build-up to the Olympic Games in Paris, France later this year and should be certainly the one to watch.